Is the Ford Fiesta petrol or diesel?
In broad terms, the Fiesta has been offered with both petrol and diesel engines at different times, but in recent years most markets have leaned toward petrol power and, in Europe, new Fiesta cars are no longer in production as of 2023.
The question spans multiple generations and regions, because engine choices changed with each update and vary by market. This article lays out how the options evolved and what buyers should expect today.
Engine options by generation
The following overview covers the main engine types that have powered the Fiesta across its model history.
Early generations (approximately 2002–2010)
- Petrol engines were the core offering, with multiple small-to-mid-sized units such as 1.2, 1.4, and 1.6 litres.
- Diesel variants appeared in Europe as Duratorq TDCi options in several markets (for example, 1.4/1.6 TDCi variants).
Older Fiests offered a mix of small petrol engines and select diesel options, depending on the market and year.
Mid-generation updates (approximately 2010–2017)
- The range expanded with improved petrol options, including the introduction of the 1.0 EcoBoost turbo petrol in some markets.
- Diesel options continued in many regions, with 1.5/1.6 Duratorq TDCi variants common in several European markets.
During this period, buyers could still choose between petrol and diesel in many places, with EcoBoost petrol engines gaining prominence in newer trims.
Recent and current era (approximately 2017–2023, Mk8)
- Petrol powertrains became the dominant choice, especially the 1.0 EcoBoost family.
- Diesel options were largely phased out for new Fiesta sales in most regions; European production for the Fiesta ended in 2023.
In the latest generation, petrol engines are standard in most markets, and new diesel options are not typically offered.
Current market status and buying considerations
Now, what this means for buyers and owners in practice.
- New cars: Ford has largely stopped selling the Fiesta in Europe; when available in other markets, the lineup is predominantly petrol and does not include a new diesel option.
- Used market: Diesel variants exist only in older Fiesta generations and specific markets; availability depends on year and region, so check the exact engine code and emission equipment (such as particulate filters) on any used example.
For buyers, the key is to verify the exact engine specification and local emissions standards for the model year, since diesel versions are not a current-new-car option in most regions and may require careful buying decisions in the used market.
Summary
The Ford Fiesta has a long history of offering both petrol and diesel engines, with diesel variants more common in older generations. In recent years, petrol engines—especially the 1.0 EcoBoost—have been the default in most markets, and European Fiesta production ceased in 2023, making new diesel options largely unavailable. If you’re shopping today, you’ll most often encounter petrol-powered Fiests, and any diesel examples will be found only among older models and specific markets.
